Master Your Bath: Planning Decisions

The bathroom is where you prepare for the day ahead and transition for a good nights rest. The typical American spends at least an hour a day on bathroom activities.  That adds up to two weeks per year, or the amount of time spent on vacation.  If you are thinking of building or remodeling your bath, consider all of the options that can make it a place worthy of your time.

Your Bathroom Profile
The essential fixtures are familiar, but the endless variety can be overwhelming when making decisions. Knowing the role a particular bath will play in your home helps narrow down the choices so you can focus on the best solution. Ask yourself the following questions to help identify the most beneficial features.

• How many people live in the home and what are their ages?
• What is the size of the bath?
• How many bathrooms are available and how convenient is the location of each?
• Will there be growth or reduction in number of people at home?
• Are there any physical issues that need to be addressed for safety and comfort?
• Is this bath private or will guests share it?
• Is water quality or usage a concern?
• Aside from normal activities, are their other ways you would like to use this space (e.g. spa shower, washer and dryer, beverage station)?

 

 
 
 
Layout
A good layout will makes the most of available space while providing for your personal and intimate needs. As an experienced builder we strive to maximize the efficiency of every square foot while introducing economies in the location of plumbing fixtures.  Consider key usage matters in advance to alleviate daily congestion.

• How many people will use the bath at the same time?
• What plumbing fixtures or appliances will you use   (e.g. number of sinks, soaking tub, towel warmer)?
• How much counter surface is needed?
• How much storage space will you need for linens and grooming products?
• How many electric outlets are needed and what location would be best?
• Would having an enclosed water closet allow multiple users privacy?
• What is the most direct path between activity zones?
• Would you be more likely to use a soaking tub or luxurious shower
• Would adding Universal or Accessible design features allow for aging in place?   

 
 
 
 
 
Express Your Style

No matter the size, every bath deserves a style statement. Since you need to purchase new components when building new or remodeling, this is the ideal time to apply a viewpoint to each selection.  Consider all of these possibilities:

• Plumbing fixtures that have a sculptural quality to advance your style.
• Vanity styles from built in wall-to-wall to freestanding furniture pieces.
• Trough and Vessel Sinks 
• Shapely tile in an unexpected pattern to add visual texture.
• Hardware to act as a touch of jewelry accenting the overall look of your room
• A bold wall color that makes you smile every time you walk in.
• Countertop materials from man-made to natural to standout as statement piece.
• Showstopping mirrors that set the tone for the entire bath.

This helpful quiz from Medallion Cabinetry will help you identify your style!
 
 
Cabinetry: Storage & Convenience

At the intersection of style and storage is your bathroom cabinetry. Interior cabinet and drawer organizers divide space for clutter-free access to daily essentials. These latest features will make the most of every inch.

• Niches built-in above sinks and in showers keep necessities visible and within reach.
• Cubbies and open shelving move into the bath to help organize and sort belongings.
• Push-touch and soft-close features are worthy additions for quiet, smooth and safe cabinet operations.
• Electric outlets on the interior of cabinets or drawers prevent tangles and dangerous dangling cords.
• Vertical pullout organizers maximize space.
• Above counter storage improves visibility and provides easy access.
• Built-in step stools and laundry hampers free up floor space.

 
Lighting the way to a good mood

Every room benefits from multiple sources of lighting, and the bath is no exception.   A combination of fixtures and natural light will help you achieve balanced color rendition throughout the day and through the seasons. The mirror area is most critical. Good illumination from above and the sides will eliminate shadows during grooming. Using the correct lamp completes the picture by allowing you to see color accurately when doing hair and makeup.

This helpful guide from Energy Star will help you choose the best lighting!

 
The installation process
Like many contractors, we trust a cabinet showroom like Geneva Cabinet Company to assist with the proper layout and detailing of cabinetry. Their work was recently featured on the PBS home-improvement show, HOMETIME.  Follow this link to watch the show as they discuss the important consideration for planning master bath and the installation of these beautiful Medallion Cabinets.

Cabinet Planning Video by Geneva Cabinet Company

Follow this link to view the entire episode of Hometime where you will also see how solid surface Cambria countertops are measured, fabricated and installed in the Master Bath.